The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Reuters reported that Democrat Zohran Mamdani was sworn in as New York City’s mayor on Thursday, beginning his term with a pledge to pursue a liberal agenda and address cost-of-living concerns.
Mamdani, 34, took office following a public swearing-in
ceremony on the steps of City Hall. Elected last November, his victory is seen
as potentially influential for how Democrats approach this year’s U.S. midterm
elections, which will determine control of Congress.
A member of the Democratic Party’s left-wing democratic
socialist faction, Mamdani campaigned heavily on affordability issues and
sharply criticized Republican President Donald Trump, whose approval ratings
have declined amid economic concerns, Reuters said.
Many of the city’s roughly 8 million residents are watching
Mamdani’s tenure closely, with reactions ranging from optimism to apprehension,
as supporters and critics alike expect him to be a disruptive political force.
The inauguration program included appearances by U.S. Sen. Bernie
Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, both prominent democratic
socialists. Sanders, whom Mamdani has described as an inspiration, presided
over the ceremony. Despite freezing temperatures, the city set up viewing areas
along Broadway for thousands to watch a livestream that also featured musical
performances.
Earlier, Mamdani was privately sworn in during the first
minutes of the New Year at the historic City Hall subway station, a
long-decommissioned site used to underscore his commitment to city workers,
according to his transition team. He is the city’s first Muslim and South Asian
mayor.
“Happy New Year to New Yorkers, both inside this tunnel and
above,” Mamdani said during the oath-taking, standing alongside his wife, Rama
Duwaji. “This is truly an honor and a privilege of a lifetime.”
